The black rosy finch or black rosy-finch is a species of passerine bird in the family Fringillidae native to alpine areas above treeline, of the western United States. It is the most range-restricted member of its genus, and a popular photography subject for birdwatchers.
Region
Western United States
Typical Environment
Breeds locally in the high Rockies and Great Basin ranges, including parts of Montana, Idaho, Wyoming, Utah, Nevada, and Colorado. Prefers stark alpine habitats above treeline with cliffs, snowfields, and expansive talus slopes. Outside the breeding season it moves downslope to windswept ridges, sagebrush flats, and human settlements. Birds frequently form mixed flocks with other rosy-finches and may gather at feeders during severe weather.
Altitude Range
2400–4000 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The black rosy-finch is a high-elevation specialist of the western United States, breeding on barren cliffs and talus above treeline. In winter it descends to lower elevations and often visits feeders in mountain towns. It nests in crevices on sheer rock faces, a strategy that helps avoid predators in harsh alpine landscapes. It is the most range-restricted rosy-finch in North America.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
fast direct flight with bounding wingbeats
Social Behavior
Breeds in isolated pairs or small loose colonies on cliff faces, placing nests deep in crevices or holes. Outside the breeding season it forms flocks, often mixing with other rosy-finch species. Pair bonds are typically monogamous for the season, and both adults provision the young.
Migratory Pattern
Partial migrant
Song Description
Song is a thin, tinkling series of twitters and trills delivered from rocks or during short display flights. Calls include sharp, buzzy chee and soft, rolling notes used to keep contact in flocks.
Plumage
Mostly sooty-black to very dark brown with a distinct rosy wash on the wings and rump; feather edges can appear slightly scaled in fresh plumage.
Diet
Feeds primarily on seeds of grasses and forbs, along with buds and some grit for digestion. During the breeding season it takes insects and other arthropods, especially along melting snow edges where invertebrates concentrate. In winter it readily visits feeders for millet and sunflower chips.
Preferred Environment
Forages on open alpine ground, talus slopes, and along the margins of snowfields where wind exposes food. In winter it uses windswept ridges, sagebrush steppe, and human-altered areas such as ski areas and mountain towns.
